Family Adventure in Torres del Paine National Park

Chasing Waterfalls and Patagonian Dreams

Today was a day of embracing the wild heart of Torres del Paine. The crisp air, the dramatic landscapes, and the promise of stunning waterfalls fueled our adventure. It’s incredible how quickly you adapt to the rhythm of nature here, each day bringing new wonders and challenges.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Las Dos Rosas de Paine. Fueled up with strong coffee and local pastries, we were ready to hit the Torres de Paine trail head. The excitement was palpable as we set off, Mateo practically bouncing with energy. The trail was moderately challenging, but the views were more than worth the effort. The towering granite peaks loomed in the distance, shrouded in mist, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring backdrop. Even in August, the landscape held a stark beauty, a reminder of nature's enduring power.


Explore Torres de Paine Trail Head, the gateway to breathtaking hikes and stunning views in Chile's Patagonia region.
As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from our life back in Potsdam. The quiet solitude, the absence of digital distractions – it was a welcome change. Klara, ever the architect, was captivated by the natural formations, pointing out patterns and structures that only she could see. Mateo, with his boundless curiosity, was fascinated by the smallest details – the colorful wildflowers clinging to the rocks, the scurrying of small rodents, and the occasional glimpse of a soaring condor. I was glad I didn't forget my camera today, as these are moments I want to remember forever, and perhaps even use in my tourism app.

We stopped for a quick snack, savoring the moment and the stunning views. It's these simple moments, shared with family, that make these trips so special. As a Chilean, I feel a deep connection to this land, and I'm so happy to share it with Klara and Mateo. I want them to understand where I came from, to appreciate the raw beauty and the rich history of this place. And I want Mateo to grow up knowing both the orderliness of Potsdam and the wildness of Patagonia.

Nature's beauty is a gift, and our duty is to protect and preserve it for future generations.

Our next stop was Salto Chico Falls, a picturesque waterfall located near the Explora hotel. The 40-minute hike to the falls was relatively easy, and the reward was well worth it. The waterfall itself wasn't massive, but the setting was stunning. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's power. The backdrop of Patagonia's famous mountains and Lago Pehoe added to the beauty.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Salto Chico Falls in Torres de Paine National Park, a natural wonder surrounded by stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
I must admit, the nearby powerhouse was a bit of an eyesore. It's a necessary evil, I suppose, providing power to the nearby lodge, but it did detract from the natural beauty of the falls. Still, we managed to find a spot where we could appreciate the falls without the distraction of the man-made structure. Mateo was particularly fascinated by the falls, and he spent a good amount of time throwing pebbles into the water and watching them disappear. Klara and I just sat and enjoyed the view, soaking in the tranquility of the moment. It's amazing how calming the sound of rushing water can be.

For lunch, we headed to Hostería El Pionero. The B&B was cozy and charming, and the staff was incredibly friendly. We enjoyed a delicious meal, savoring the local flavors and the warm hospitality. Mateo, of course, devoured his food, always eager to try new things. It's wonderful to see him embrace the local culture and cuisine with such enthusiasm. I overheard the staff mentioning that the hotel was conveniently located near the main welcome center, which is good to know for future trips.


Experience comfort and local charm at Hostería El Pionero near Torres del Paine – your gateway to stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures.
After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll around the grounds of the Hostería, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful scenery. Klara was particularly taken with the animals on-site. She loves animals, and she was thrilled to see horses grazing in the fields. Mateo, of course, wanted to pet them all, but we had to keep a safe distance. We spent a good hour just watching the animals and enjoying the fresh air. These are the moments that make our family trips so special – the shared experiences, the simple pleasures, and the memories that we create together.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to El Ovejero for dinner. The drive was scenic, and we even spotted some wildlife along the way. El Ovejero had a cozy, rustic charm, and the food was hearty and delicious. We enjoyed a traditional Patagonian meal, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant is known for its Saturday buffets, but the menu was good even on a Wednesday.


Experience authentic Patagonian cuisine at El Ovejero, nestled in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park.
After dinner, we decided to check out Patio Bar 209 for a nightcap. It was a cozy spot, perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking. I enjoyed a local beer, while Klara sipped on a glass of Chilean wine. Mateo, of course, had a soda. We chatted about our day, reminiscing about our favorite moments and planning our adventures for tomorrow. The wind was definitely milder, which was a welcome change.


Discover the lively charm of Patio Bar 209 in Puerto Natales, where creative cocktails and local culture blend for an unforgettable night.
Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Mirador Nordenskjöld Lake and Mirador Dorotea. The forecast looks promising, and we're excited to see what new wonders await us. We'll start with breakfast at Refugio Laguna Amarga, have lunch at Restaurant Pehoe Barbecue, and end the day with dinner at Hosteria Pehoe. We might even stop by One Aco Outdoorshop to pick up some souvenirs.

As I sit here now, reflecting on our day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place, gratitude for the chance to share it with my family, and gratitude for the simple joys of life. Patagonia has a way of stripping away the unnecessary, leaving you with only what truly matters – love, connection, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. It’s a lesson I hope to carry with me long after we leave this place.

I think Mark Twain said it best:

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

Good night from Torres del Paine, and see you tomorrow!